Question map
Which one of the following tribal groups is dominantly found in the Blue Mountains?
Explanation
The Todas are a small pastoral tribal group dominantly found in the Nilgiri Hills, which are also known as the Blue Mountains [3]. They primarily inhabit the higher elevations of these hills in Tamil Nadu and are known for their unique culture centered around buffalo breeding and dairy products [4]. Historically, the Nilgiris have been described as the 'Blue Mountains of Coimbatoor,' where the Todas are recognized as a singular aboriginal race. While other tribes like the Gonds are widely distributed across Central India [5], and the Jarawas are indigenous to the Andaman Islands [2], the Todas are specifically associated with the Nilgiri landscape [4]. Their social structure is traditionally patriarchal and was historically known for practicing fraternal polyandry [2]. The Nilgiri district remains an important ethnic zone for the Toda heritage and ecology [3].
Sources
- [3] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 15: Regional Development and Planning > Economy > p. 33
- [2] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 13: Cultural Setting > The Todas > p. 37
- [4] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 13: Cultural Setting > 3. Sedentary Cultivation and Animal Husbandry > p. 27
- [5] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 13: Cultural Setting > The Gonds > p. 29
- [1] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 13: Cultural Setting > 2. Dravidians > p. 7